US general defends 'secret' phone calls with China

Top US General Mark Milley has defended himself after a book reported he had "secret" phone calls with China amid concerns about then-President Donald Trump.

The calls last October and January were to reassure the Chinese military, Gen Milley said on Wednesday.

Mr Trump said the claims were fabricated and Republicans have called for the general to be fired.

President Joe Biden said he has "great confidence" in Gen Milley.

Gen Milley's spokesman said that the calls were in keeping with his "duties and responsibilities conveying reassurance in order to...